Race car dealership with a small lot or shop

Enthusiasts moving into track days or club racing, experienced drivers upgrading, and small teams that need a car quickly.

The margin between what you pay and what you sell for, after prep and transport costs. You can add income from selling spares, arranging shipping or taking trade-ins.

• Strong knowledge of race cars and fair market values
• Mechanical inspection ability or a trusted mechanic
• Sales and negotiation
• Cash flow and inventory management

• Most states require a dealer license to sell vehicles regularly, with rules on premises, bonds and record keeping, so check with your state licensing office
• Garage liability and inventory insurance, and sales tax registration with your state
• Cash is tied up in stock, and race cars can take months to sell
• Safety claims and warranty disputes, so use clear as-is wording reviewed by an attorney
• Workers' compensation insurance once you hire a mechanic or helper

Estimates suggest startup costs are typically around $40,000 to $150,000, depending on your premises, how many cars you hold in stock, insurance and prep equipment. Cash is tied up in stock, so plan for cars that take months to sell.

Estimated monthly revenue is typically around $15,000 to $70,000, depending on how many cars you sell and their prices. Race cars can take months to sell, so treat these as estimates, not guaranteed income.

Most states require a dealer license to sell vehicles regularly, with rules on premises, bonds and record keeping, so check with your state licensing office. Also check sales tax registration and garage liability and inventory insurance.